The Leverkusen Blueprint Comes to Madrid

When Xabi Alonso took charge at Real Madrid in May 2025, he brought more than just coaching credentials - he carried a proven tactical blueprint. His Bundesliga-winning 4-3-3 system from Bayer Leverkusen, featuring rapid transitions and positional fluidity, now gets its ultimate test at the Bernabéu. This approach helped Leverkusen achieve a record 44-match unbeaten streak through vertical passing (620 per game average) and flexible formations.

Summer Rebuild: Youth Meets Experience

Alonso's reconstruction focuses on two pillars:

• Strategic signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold to strengthen defense
• Promoting academy stars like Álvaro Álvarez (35% of preseason minutes)

"The next generation must feel they're custodians of our legacy," Alonso stated during his first press conference.

Club World Cup: First Tactical Test

Madrid's 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign showcases Alonso's hybrid 3-4-3 system:

• Dani Carvajal and Fran García as attacking full-backs
• Jude Bellingham transitioning between midfield roles
• Kylian Mbappé adopting more creative responsibilities

Cultivating a New Mentality

Alonso's leadership team combines club legends like Sergio Ramos with fresh tactical minds. This blend aims to restore Madrid's signature intensity while maintaining modern flexibility. Recent closed-door friendlies show promising signs, with the team demonstrating 12% higher pressing intensity than last season.

The Road to Decima-Cinco

With six trophies mandated by 2028 - including that elusive 15th Champions League - Alonso's Madrid seeks to balance immediate results with long-term vision. As the coach recently told Marca: "We want fans to leave every match feeling they've witnessed football history."